Klopp worried as Mane returns with ‘old injury’

Liverpool star Sadio Mane has returned to the club with an injury after representing Senegal in a 2018 World Cup play-off clash against South Africa.

Mane set up Diafra Sakho’s goal in the 2-0 win in Polokwane, but has now seen his old hamstring injury return and is set to start his recovery back on Merseyside.

“Following the South Africa against Senegal match on Friday, November 10 in Polokwane, the player Sadio Mane slightly felt his old injury,” a statement from the Senegalese Football Federation read.

“After consultations between the medical staff of the Senegal national team and Liverpool, it was decided by mutual agreement to make him available to his club with a view to continuing treatment until full recovery.”

The 25-year-old’s hamstring problem has kept him out of two UEFA Champions League games, an EFL Cup clash, and three Premier League fixtures this season.

“First and foremost, I have to say big congratulations to Senegal on the achievement of qualifying for the World Cup; this is fantastic news for their country and the players – Sadio included,” Klopp told Liverpool’s official website.

“Specifically on him returning to Melwood early to be with us; obviously it is a concern that the hamstring injury is again on the agenda and it will be critical for us to monitor and manage that in the coming days.

“At this stage we haven’t seen Sadio yet to properly assess the extent, but what is clear is that we will have to stay on top of this for the rest of the week and make sure we are careful in how we look after him.

“There has been really strong communication between ourselves and the Senegal team management to ensure the player is properly protected and looked after.

“We respect how important he is for Senegal and therefore it must always be the case that they get to make the decision when he is under their care.

“It should not be forgotten in Liverpool, either, how important it is to Sadio that he represents his country whenever he is fit enough to do so. He is so proud of his country and recognises what a role model he is for them.

“So, in this moment all I can really say with certainty is that we will assess Sadio as soon as he lands back in the country and make decisions on what rehab and treatment gives him the best chance of being back fit and strong for the important fixtures we have coming.”